Hanging Tree is a historical reminder of the days of the wild west. Days when people were trying to find their way in a new world. A land of lawlessness, heavily fueled by greed created from the Cariboo Gold Rush. The Hangman's Tree is where the perceived "bad guys" were hung in the days of the gold rush.

Many were scheduled to be hung from the tree by order of BC's most famous "hanging judge" - Matthew Bailie Begbie. Today, the tree is no longer standing - age taking its toll. What remains of the tree is on display, to this day, in pieces where it once stood.

Cayoosh Park is where the tree sits today in the town of Lillooet. The popular neighbourhood park sits on a hill providing great views of the community, Fraser River and Fountain Ridge.

Cayoosh Park is covered with looming ponderosa pine trees, some the direct descendants of the Hangman Tree. Amongst the trees is a series of picnic tables - some in the shade, some in the open.

The fallen tree rests, as the story goes, beside the grave of William Armitage convicted of the murder of Thomas Clegg on October 15th, 1863. The story continues that of the people hung from the tree that their remains were buried under the Chinese Rock Pilings which are also part of the communities historical past.

How to get to Hangman's Tree: Once in the community of Lillooet, travel down Main Street to 7th Avenue. Turn onto 7th avenue which turns onto Russell Lane. Keep an eye out for the information sign and the main Chinese Rock Piling on your right. Located just up the street is Cayoosh park and Hangman's Tree.